Oriental bellydance is an ancient artform which encourages the dancer to know their will, and understand that their will is valid in the world. It helps strengthen (or even rebuild) the relationship between mind, body, and spirit, and facilitates a sense of community and connection between all involved: dancers, musicians, audience members, and even staff at special events.

With a rich history, oriental bellydance has transcended generations and spread across cultures and carries with it a sense of welcoming and acceptance of the uniqueness of each and every body as well as the spirit within. It embraces a broad variety of natural movements which can support improved balance and range of motion as well as a release of stress and tension that can be carried in the body as well as the mind. The culture of the dance encourages positive support and acceptance of those who choose to engage in the art at any level.

Oriental bellydance is a family friendly form of art where the dancer is empowered and may or may not choose to accept tips, and if they choose to accept tips, they will guide the audience member where they may tip them. Audience members are sometimes welcomed by the performer to join them in movement for a period of time and children are welcomed to ask the dancer if they may join her in dancing. A skilled dancer is a well respected artist and often the heart and life of the party. They may even lead all of the guests in folkloric line dances at events where this is a part of the culture. If you find yourself fortunate enough to experience such an event, please give yourself permission to get up and join in the fun when invited! Others are there to enjoy themselves as opposed to focusing on judging others. Lean into your natural born freedom and let yourself enjoy the music as well as living and moving the whole of you, mind/body/spirit (or perhaps let the mind take a rest and let the body and spirit play). To dance freely is to live more fully.

Yours in dance,

Jenny Nehir